Members of the Americorps National Civilian Community Corps team are working with the Lutheran Disaster Response in Minot to help clean homes that were effected by the devestating Souris River flood.
A group of hardworking young people from the Americorps Vinton, Iowa campus have been working to powerwash and sanitize homes so families can begin rebuilding their houses.
"We have one week left in Minot. Right now we're trying to get rid of mold in the homes. This is the last step," AmeriCorps Media Representative Emma Mills explained.
It's not just AmeriCorps who are getting their hands dirty. Lutheran Disaster response and Hope Village are doing all they can to help flood victims.
"We've done this very thing to dozens of houses this summer. We're trying to help people who need help. This is part of what Lutheran Disaster Response does," Lutheran Disaster Response's Assistant Construction Coordinator Janell Cole said.
Many of the families that own homes effected by the flood are thankful as they are getting their homes repaired at no cost to them. Members of Olivia Peterson's family had to move in with her after the waters from the Souris ravaged her parents' home. The move led to seven people and one dog living in a three-room mobile home. Her parents are now moved into a FEMA trailer as their home is being worked on by AmeriCorps.
"I appreciate all the work they're doing. They have some of the best personalities of any people I've gotten to know," Peterson said.
AmeriCorps NCCC is a full-time team of men and women between the ages of 18 and 24. Volunteers work for 10 months total and six to eight weeks at one location. According to the Americorps website, NCCC members have responded to every national disaster since the program was established.
"People join for many reasons. Some want to help people. Others want an educational stipend. You can also get experience if you want to join the Peace Corps. It's the prime opportunity (for volunteers) to do something before they start their career," Mills said.
If you would like to help AmeriCorps clean houses, join them for Community Recovery Day at Hope Village at 3705-11th St. SW in Minot on Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.